A RETIRED fire officer who organised and led 50 humanitarian missions to eastern Europe for almost two decades has been awarded an Honorary Bachelor of Science Degree by Aberystwyth University.

Eric Harries, former station manager at Aberystwyth Fire Station, co-ordinated the missions from Aberystwyth to Bosnia, Croatia, Belarus and Romania between 1994-2013.

Compelled to help the innocent victims of war, he started a campaign engaging with the local community and the media to raise awareness of the vital need for humanitarian assistance and supplies, and co-ordinated collections and fundraising across Ceredigion.

He then used his annual leave to drive his van on the 3,500-mile journey to take food, toiletries and medical supplies to the areas affected by war.

Eric Harris’ humanitarian efforts benefited the lives of countless people.

He was presented for the honorary degree by Dr Elin Royles from the Department of International Politics.

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